TAMPA, FL -- The National Confectionery Sales Association honored this year's top new candies and snacks at its annual banquet on Oct. 15 in Tampa. Product nominations across six categories, chosen for their innovation and sales potential, came from candy and snack buyers, brokers and suppliers. A panel of industry specialists selected the winning 30 items.

In the chocolate category, the winner was Snickers Peanut Butter Squared from Mars Chocolate North America. Four other products received NCSA Certificates of Achievement: Hershey's Drops from Hershey Co.; Chocolate Dips made by Jelly Belly Candy Co.; the Skinny Cow line by Nestlé USA Inc.; and giant- and bite-size Turtles from DeMet's Candy Co.

In the snacks category, the winner was Orchard Bars from Liberty Orchards Co. Inc., with NCSA certificates going to Hummus Chips made by Simply 7 Snacks LLC, Buffalo Blue Cheese Pretzel Combos from Mars, Flavor Roasted Cashews produced by Yumnuts Natural; and the Seasoned Nuts line from Sahale Snacks Inc.

The National Confectionery Sales Association, formed in 1899, promotes confectionery products. Along with the annual new product awards, the association administers the Candy Hall of Fame, founded in 1971, and recognizes lifetime career achievements in the confectionery industry.